US navy warship near Yemen 'intercepted projectiles'

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there were no injuries and that a number of projectiles, including drones, were brought down near the destroyer USS Carney.

They added that according to initial information, it did not appear that the Carney was the target but rather missiles were passing in its vicinity.

The US has sent a significant amount of naval power to the Middle East in the past week, including two aircraft carriers, their support ships and about 2000 marines.

While the White House says there are "no plans or intentions" for their use, it means US military assets would be in place to provide support to protect US security interests if needed.

The US also has an array of bases in the Middle East with troops, fighter aircraft and warships.